Central Heating Pump Guide UK 2026
Grundfos, Wilo & DAB Compared - How Heating Pumps Differ from Shower Pumps
If you've found this guide, you're probably dealing with cold radiators, noisy pipes, or a heating system that just isn't working properly. The culprit? Often it's the central heating pump - a small but crucial component that most homeowners know nothing about until it fails.
We've analysed over 1,000 reviews from professional heating engineers, homeowners, and independent testers to bring you the most comprehensive UK guide to central heating circulation pumps. Unlike shower pumps (which we cover in our separate shower pump guide), heating pumps have very different requirements - and choosing the wrong one can be costly.
What is a Central Heating Pump?
A central heating pump (also called a circulation pump or circulator) is the heart of your heating system. It's responsible for pushing hot water from your boiler through the pipes to your radiators and back again in a continuous loop.
How It Works
An electric motor spins an impeller (like a small propeller) which pushes water through your heating system. Modern pumps are variable speed, adjusting their power based on demand to save energy.
Where It's Located
In most UK homes, the pump is either inside the boiler (integral pump) or mounted externally near the boiler on the central heating pipework. External pumps are easier to replace.
Key Point: A central heating pump should last 10-15 years with proper maintenance. However, in Hampshire's hard water areas, limescale buildup can significantly reduce lifespan without regular system treatment.
Central Heating Pump vs Shower Pump: Key Differences
Many homeowners confuse these two types of pumps, but they serve completely different purposes and have very different specifications. Here's how they compare:
| Feature | Central Heating Pump | Shower Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Circulates hot water through radiators | Boosts water pressure for showers/taps |
| Water Type | Closed loop heating water only | Fresh potable water (drinking water) |
| Temperature | Up to 110°C | Up to 65°C typically |
| Flow Rate | Low pressure, continuous circulation | High pressure, on-demand boost |
| Operation | Runs whenever heating is on | Only runs when water flows |
| Typical Cost | £120-£200 | £150-£450 |
| Installation Cost | £75-£150 | £150-£350 |
| Brands | Grundfos, Wilo, DAB | Stuart Turner, Salamander, Aqualisa |
Critical Warning
You cannot use a shower pump to replace a central heating pump or vice versa. They are completely different systems. Using the wrong type could damage your heating system, void warranties, or create safety hazards.
Central Heating Pump Brand Comparison
We've analysed reviews from professional heating engineers, Trustpilot, trade forums, and independent testers to bring you honest assessments.
Grundfos UPS3
Best Overall Choice
500+ reviews • Multiple Sources
Review Breakdown
Pros
- Industry standard - "king" among professional installers
- Exceptional 5-year warranty
- Fits inside most UK domestic boilers
- Grundfos GO Replace app for easy identification
- Whisper-quiet operation
- Self-venting design reduces air lock issues
Cons
- Higher price than competitors
- Some reports of declining quality in recent years
- May be overkill for smaller systems
- Counterfeit products on marketplace sites
“Grundfos is the king and that's what 99.9% of qualified heating engineers would recommend. The quality is absolutely first class and the 5-year warranty gives peace of mind.”
“Grundfos have gone downhill in recent years. While still good, they're not the bulletproof pumps they used to be. At least they honour their warranty.”
Wilo Yonos Pico
Best Value Choice
300+ reviews • Multiple Sources
Review Breakdown
Pros
- Excellent energy efficiency (EEI ≤0.17)
- "Green Button Technology" for easy setup
- German engineering quality
- Lower price than Grundfos
- Stiftung Warentest "VERY GOOD" rating
- Simple installation praised by plumbers
Cons
- Can be sensitive in dirty systems
- Requires clean system for optimal performance
- Less established brand recognition in UK
- Some availability issues
“Wilo are proper competition for Grundfos now. The Yonos Pico is brilliant - energy efficient, quiet, and the green button makes setup a breeze. Half my customers don't notice it running.”
“In a dirty system the Wilo seemed to struggle more than the old Grundfos. System flush sorted it but something to bear in mind.”
DAB Evosta 3
Best Budget Choice
200+ reviews • Multiple Sources
Review Breakdown
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Cast iron body for durability
- IPX5 protection rating
- Integrated bleeding plug
- Good energy efficiency (EEI ≤0.19)
- Growing reputation among installers
Cons
- Newer brand in UK market
- Less installer familiarity
- Limited UK support compared to Grundfos
- Not as quiet as premium options
“DAB Evosta 3 is great value. Cast iron body, 5-year warranty, and costs less than the competition. Perfect for standard domestic systems.”
“Good pump but the noise was noticeable compared to the Grundfos it replaced. Not loud, just present. Still happy with it for the price.”
Signs Your Central Heating Pump Needs Replacing
Recognising the early warning signs can save you from being without heating in the middle of winter. Here are the key symptoms of a failing pump:
Unusual Noises
Humming, grinding, or clicking sounds. A healthy pump should be virtually silent. Noise often indicates worn bearings or a seized impeller.
Cold Radiators
Some radiators hot while others cold, especially upstairs ones. This indicates the pump isn't circulating water effectively throughout the system.
Slow Heating Up
System takes much longer than usual to warm up. A weak pump can't circulate water fast enough to heat your home efficiently.
Pump Won't Start
Pump remains silent when heating is activated. Could be electrical failure, seized bearings, or complete motor failure.
Water Leaks
Visible drips or water marks around the pump. Seal failure is common in older pumps and indicates replacement is needed.
Higher Energy Bills
Old non-A-rated pumps can cost £100+ more per year in electricity. Modern A-rated pumps pay for themselves within 2-3 years.
Professional Tip
If your pump is making noise or struggling, don't wait for complete failure. A failing pump can damage your boiler by causing overheating, which is a much more expensive repair. Preventive replacement during summer months often costs less and avoids emergency winter call-outs.
Energy Ratings Explained: Why A-Rated Pumps Save You Money
Since 2013, EU regulations have required all new central heating pumps to meet minimum energy efficiency standards. Here's what the ratings mean for your energy bills:
Annual Running Cost Comparison
Potential Savings: Upgrading from an old D-rated pump to a modern A-rated pump can save £100-160 per year. With pump prices starting at £120, your new pump pays for itself in 1-2 years.
What is EEI?
EEI (Energy Efficiency Index) measures pump efficiency. Lower is better:
- EEI ≤0.20 = A-rated (excellent)
- EEI 0.20-0.23 = B-rated (good)
- EEI >0.23 = C-rated or below
Variable Speed Benefits
All A-rated pumps use variable speed technology:
- Automatically adjusts to demand
- Runs quieter at lower speeds
- Less wear = longer lifespan
- Uses 80% less electricity
Central Heating Pump Replacement Costs UK 2026
| Item | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Pump (DAB Evosta 3) | £120-160 | Great value, 5-year warranty |
| Mid-Range (Wilo Yonos Pico) | £140-180 | Best efficiency, 5-year warranty |
| Premium (Grundfos UPS3) | £160-200 | Industry standard, 5-year warranty |
| Installation Labour | £75-150 | 1-2 hours typical |
| System Flush (if needed) | £150-350 | Recommended for dirty systems |
| Emergency Call-Out | +£50-100 | Weekend/evening premium |
Typical Total Cost
£195 - £350
Supply and fit for standard domestic replacement. External pump swap typically 1 hour.
Complex Installation
£350 - £550
Internal boiler pump, awkward access, or system flush required. May take 2-4 hours.
Hampshire & Wiltshire Heating Pump Considerations
Hard Water Impact
Hampshire's water is among the hardest in the UK, with typical readings of 270-320mg/L calcium carbonate. This affects heating systems in several ways:
- Limescale buildup reduces pump efficiency
- Impellers can become clogged
- Lifespan can be reduced by 20-30%
Our Recommendation
For Hampshire properties, we recommend:
- Grundfos UPS3 for maximum reliability
- Annual system inhibitor top-up
- Magnetic filter installation
- Power flush every 5-7 years
Areas We Cover
We provide central heating pump replacement services across:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a central heating pump last?
A quality pump should last 10-15 years with proper maintenance. In Hampshire's hard water areas, this may be reduced to 8-12 years without regular inhibitor treatment and system cleaning.
Can I replace my heating pump myself (DIY)?
Technically yes, if you're competent with plumbing. However, we recommend professional installation for several reasons: warranty compliance, correct sizing, proper inhibitor levels, and identification of underlying system issues. A poor installation can damage your boiler.
What size pump do I need?
Most UK domestic systems use either a 15-50 or 15-60 pump. The first number is the connection size (15mm), the second is the head (pressure) in metres. A 15-50 suits most 2-3 bed homes. Larger properties or systems with many radiators may need a 15-60 or larger.
Why is my pump humming but radiators are cold?
The pump may be running but air-locked or seized. First, try bleeding radiators. If that doesn't work, the pump impeller may be stuck - sometimes a gentle tap with a screwdriver can free it. If not, replacement is likely needed.
Should I get my system flushed when replacing the pump?
If your system is over 10 years old and has never been flushed, we strongly recommend it. Black sludge (magnetite) in the system will quickly damage your new pump. A power flush costs £150-350 but protects your £200 pump investment.
What's the difference between Grundfos UPS2 and UPS3?
The UPS3 is the newer model with improved energy efficiency (EEI ≤0.20 vs ≤0.23), better self-venting design, and the GO Replace app compatibility. The UPS3 is now the standard recommendation for all new installations.
Can a faulty pump damage my boiler?
Yes. If the pump fails completely, the boiler can overheat as water isn't circulating. Modern boilers have safety cut-offs, but repeated overheating can damage heat exchangers. This is why we recommend prompt pump replacement at first signs of failure.
Need a Central Heating Pump Replaced?
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